Perhaps you’ve dreamed of taking Leonardo DiCaprio’s place in
The Wolf of Wall Street or filling in for Cate Blanchett in
Blue Jasmine.

And a moment on the red carpet, walking into the Academy Awards ceremonies, might complete the
fantasy.

If so, central Ohio theaters can indulge your inner desires by providing a chance to experience
the glam of Oscar night.

“It’s a celebration for people that just love movies,” said Kevin Rouch, director of the Drexel
Theatre, which will host its 17th annual Oscar bash on Sunday. “The two that I have attended, it’s
such a fun event, because people get dressed up. They enjoy the telecast, and we add a little spice
to it.”

Such spice includes rolling out a red carpet — complete with faux fans, paparazzi and
interviewers — so visitors can make a grand entrance. Inside, noshes from Bexley-area restaurants
will be available.

Visitors can watch the pre-Oscar festivities and the Academy Awards telecast on the big screen.
Hosts George Wolf and Hope Madden will conduct trivia contests and other activities during
commercials.

For the record, Rouch and his wife are leaning toward costumes depicting characters from
American Hustle. Although the hosts are still contemplating their outfits, they typically
stick to simple but snazzy costumes, Wolf said.

The evening also includes a costume contest and a predict-the-Oscars contest, in which the
winner receives a one-year pass to the Drexel.

A predict-the-winners contest — with a one-year pass prize — is also featured during the
pre-screening party at the Gateway Film Center.

Now in its fifth year, the party brings together film fans to share their passion, said Johnny
DiLoretto, Gateway director of communications.

“We love the Oscars. We love the movies,” he said. “I’ve been watching them since I was a kid.
It’s fun to get a bunch of like-minded people who are into it, who care.”

DiLoretto and Gateway president Chris Hamel will serve as masters of ceremonies. The event will
include food from the Gateway’s Torpedo Room, the new Jules Verne-inspired spot operated by
restaurateur Liz Lessner.

And for people who put on their Sunday best, a photo booth will be available to commemorate the
event.

“We get people dressed to the nines out here and looking good,” DiLoretto said. “We want them to
have fun.”

Pre-screening party guests are guaranteed a spot in the theater. For those who wish to see the
telecast only, however, free tickets will be available to the public three hours before the
show.

For those who simply want to sit back, watch the show and relax, the Grandview Theatre will
carry the telecast with none of the glitz, said co-owner David Nedrow.